“Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy, but to fulfil. For most certainly, I tell you, until heaven and earth pass away, not even one smallest letter or one tiny pen stroke shall in any way pass away from the Law, until all things are accomplished. Therefore, whoever shall break one of these least Commandments and teach others to do so, shall be called least in the Kingdom of Heaven; but whoever shall do and teach them shall be called great in the Kingdom of Heaven. For I tell you that unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, there is no way you will enter into the Kingdom of Heaven.” (Matthew 5:17-20)
In our passage today, Jesus teaches us that the Law remains central to the Christian faith, but Jesus’ teachings provide a new perspective and a deeper understanding of its meaning. He emphasizes the importance of every detail of the Law, even the smallest letter or pen stroke. This indicates the meticulous nature of God’s Law and the need for careful obedience.
Our Lord also warns against breaking even the least commandment or teaching others to do so. Those who do so will be considered the least in the Kingdom of Heaven. Conversely, those who do and teach the Law will be considered great.
There is a very high standard of righteousness required for entry into the Kingdom of Heaven. Christ said that our righteousness must exceed that of the scribes and Pharisees, known for their meticulous adherence to the Law. This does not mean we must outdo others in legalistic observance but rather that our righteousness must be rooted in love and grace, as exemplified by Jesus’ life and teachings.
